Big Bend Ranch State Park Texas

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Big Bend Ranch State Park encompasses287,000 acres of Chihuahuan Desert wilderness, along the Rio Grande River of western Texas. Operated as a preserve by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, it is adjacent to Big Bend National Park on the west. Established in 1988, the state park features spectacular rock formations, unique plants and animals, and 10,000 years of human history.

Embracing some of the most remote and rugged terrain in the Southwest, it encompasses two mountain ranges containing ancient extinct volcanoes, precipitous canyons, and waterfalls. Big Bend Ranch State Park is home to a tremendous diversity of animal and plant species, including 14 species of bats, several species of hummingbirds, and at least 11 other rare plants and animals, including Hinckley Oaks and Mountain Lions. The park also maintains a small Texas longhorn herd, a remnant of the property's ranching heritage.

General Information

Seasons / Hours

Open year round, 24 hours a dayOffice Hours: 8 am to 5 pm.

Rates & Fees

Entrance and Use Fees are different from most state parks. For Bus Tour Reservations, call 512-389-8900. For more details on Big Bend, call one of the three contact phone numbers listed here.

Entrance Fee$3.00 - $5.00 per day per per person; Children under 12 none
Conservation Passport holders are exempt from entrance fee.

Activity FeeEquestrian Fee
$2 per horse/per day

Visitor Center

Facilities/Features
The Visitor Center provides exhibits on the geology, ecology, prehistory and history of the park and the nearby region. The Visitor Center also provides drinking water and rest rooms. Postcards, books, slides, and film are on sale.

Rules, Regulations, Precautions

Permits

All persons entering the interior for day or overnight use must have a permit. Visitors can buy permits at the Warnock Center or Fort Leaton. In order to manage and maintain the state park for recreational use, this regulation is strictly, enforced and visitors are subject to arrest and fines if found in violation.

Driving

The speed limit is 25 miles per hour unless otherwise posted.

When going over the hills or around blind curves, stay on the right-hand side of the road. Driving is permitted on designated roads only. Off-road driving of any kind is prohibited.

All Interior roads are dirt, and many are not passable by all street vehicles.

Do not drive in areas where there is doubt. Avoid creeks that are flooding or have rising water. In the event of mechanical problems or a car being stuck or disabled, the driver must make outside arrangements with tow or mechanic services.

Conservation/Preservation

The natural and cultural resources of BBRSP are protected by law. Collection of plants, animals, rocks, or artifacts of any type or quantity is strictly forbidden and can result in fines and/or incarceration.

Not all portions of BBRSP are as yet open to the public and only specifically designated areas can be used.

Do notmolest or feed the wildlife.

Bird calls are prohibited.

Primitive Camping

All camping areas are designated as primitive camping. Camping is allowed within 300 feet in any direction of the designated Parking area.

Alteration of an area (such as removing plants) or modifying the terrain is prohibited.

You will need to bring your own water and fuel; electricity is not available.

Loud music, noisy generators, or other devices that disturb the surrounding peace and tranquility are not allowed.

Please practice minimum impact camping.

Fires

Ground fires are prohibited. Fires must be contained in a fire pan and any wood burned must be brought in. Ashes must be extinguished and deposited in garbage cans located at the entrance or at Sauceda. Self-contained stoves are welcome.

Sanitation

All camping has to be done at least 300 feet from a water source.

Grey water must be dumped and human waste must be deposited no closer than 300 feet from camping areas and water sources.

Fecal material must be put in a "cat hole," along with toilet paper. The paper should be burned and then the hole covered up.

Entering springs, creeks or pools for bathing, swimming or wading is prohibited.

Pets

Pet Restrictions: Pets allowed in the park on a 6 ft. leash at all times. Care should be taken around wild animals.

Hiking

Day hiking only is allowed along roads leaving designated camping areas. Hikers must return to and camp in their designated camp sites. Cross country travel is not allowed.

DOs

Pack plenty of water for yourself and your vehicle. Purify any water from springs, creeks or stock tanks.

Have a mechanically sound vehicle, appropriate for dirt roads, and plenty of gas.

Be aware of weather extremes and have proper clothing. Wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are all recommended. Have warm clothes ready during winter months.

Respect archeological and historical sites and report any unusual finds to park personnel.

Watch for flash floods when walking in creeks and do not camp in drainage areas.